Iron + Folic acid + B6 + B12 (Hemarate FA) is a round, pink-colored, biconvex tablet bisected on one side and plain on the other side.

This product is specially formulated to meet the highly increased demands of pregnant women for iron, folic acid, vitamins B6 and B12 – nutrients necessary for healthy blood to prevent anemia and to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs). Studies show that anemia is highly prevalent during pregnancy.

Aside from iron deficiency, pregnant women are also prone to folate, vitamin B6 and B12 deficiency which could lead to NTDs and hyperhomocysteinemia. The combination of folate, vitamin B6 and B12 in this product may help lower plasma homocysteine. Recent data show that elevated plasma homocysteine is associated with common pregnancy complications (e.g., preeclampsia) and adverse pregnancy outcomes (e.g., prematurity, very low birth weight). Hyperhomocysteinemia has been reported to result in NTDs and is also identified as a risk factor for atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

This product combines anti-anemia and antihomocysteine nutrients:

Iron – essential in the formulation of blood, transport and storage of oxygen and a cofactor required for the proper functioning of cells.

Folic acid – required for the prevention of neural tube defects (NTDs) in infants characterized by malformation of neural tube including spina bifida which can lead to a variety of physical disabilities (e.g., paralysis and hydrocephalus). Adequate folate nutrition offers protection against complications of pregnancy, including premature detachment of the placenta, hemorrhage, low birth weight and fetal malformation. Folate deficiency is a major concern during pregnancy because during this period, there is a notable decrease in the efficiency of folate absorption and an increase in the rate of urinary folate excretion.

Vitamins B6 and B12 – help in the synthesis of hemoglobin and formation of red blood cells. These nutrients also facilitate energy metabolism and may help relieve anorexia, muscle weakness, nausea and vomiting.